So, you've just been involved in an accident with more than one driver. Now what? When it comes to determining fault for car accidents where multiple vehicles are damaged, things can get tricky. To ensure you have a better understanding of what you can expect following a multi-car accident, stick around.
What is a multi-vehicle collision?
A multi-vehicle collision (or MVC) occurs when there are more than two vehicles involved. As we mentioned, unlike a collision where there are only two cars damaged, a multi-car collision with three or more vehicles can add an extra layer of confusion, contribute to more damage or injuries, and make it more difficult for insurance companies to accurately determine what happened and who is at fault for the incident.
Common multi-car accidents
The fact of the matter is that numerous types of multi-vehicle accidents can occur when you least expect them to. Here are some of the most common types of multi-vehicle collisions that happen in Canada:
Head on collision
A head-on collision happens when the front end of a vehicle drives into oncoming traffic and hits the front end of another vehicle. Whether it be due to distracted driving, a medical emergency, or other problems, these types of head-on collisions can cause a chain-reaction car accident that can lead to serious consequences.
Impact collision
An impact collision typically occurs when a driver hits more than one car on the passenger or driver's side as a result of failing to yield--whether it be at a stop sign, intersection, or a red light.
Pile up collision
A multi-car pile-up, also known as a chain reaction accident, is a serious incident that can lead to fatal injuries. These accidents often involve several drivers and typically occur when drivers lose control and hit multiple vehicles to cause a chain reaction. As there are multiple parties involved, determining liability can be difficult.
Rear-end collision
A rear-end accident occurs when a car in the same lane and safe direction as another hits the rear vehicle of the driver in front of them. Depending on how fast the car was travelling, rear-end collisions can also cause a chain reaction accident where multiple cars are hit.
How is fault determined in a multi-car accident?
As we stated, multiple vehicle accidents where three or more cars are involved can cause delays when assigning faults. However, with the multiple car accident scenarios we listed above, some presumptions of fault can be used:
Head on collisions
When it comes to a head-on collision, at-fault drivers are usually the ones who veer into oncoming traffic.
Rear end collision
Rear-end collisions often occur due to distracted driving, and fault in this type of multiple-vehicle accident is usually given to the vehicle that hits the back end of the car in front of them, leading to a shared fault scenario.
Pile-up/chain reaction accident
When it comes to pile-up or chain reaction accidents, the at-fault driver, again, is usually the one who initiates the accident with other vehicles.
Who determines fault in a car accident with multiple drivers?
Determining fault in a multi-vehicle accident often takes a lot of consideration from numerous parties. So, how exactly does an insurance company determine fault? Beyond the police report, there could also be witness statements from those driving other cars, dash cam footage, CCTV footage, self-taken photos or videos, and more.
In addition to an insurance company, a car accident lawyer and police officers can also help determine fault, especially if there are conflicting findings following an in-depth investigation. In some cases, the accident may involve a personal injury lawsuit, which adds another layer of complexity to the overall situation.
Does a no-fault insurance system affect how fault is determined?
Living in a province or territory that operates under a no-fault insurance system will determine fault in the same manner as regions that do not, no matter how many drivers are involved. Essentially, a no-fault insurance system allows those in car accidents to deal with their claim directly with their provider rather than working through a third party to receive compensation. The goal of this type of insurance system is to speed up the claims process, but it has nothing to do with how at-fault parties are determined.
Ensure you're protected no matter how many vehicles are involved with these insurance policies
Accidents can happen anytime, anywhere, which is why having the right car insurance in place can make a world of difference when it comes to navigating the aftermath of a collision. To ensure that you're comprehensively protected, no matter how many parties are involved, make sure you've got these types of auto insurance policies in your portfolio:
Third-party liability insurance
Third-party liability insurance is mandatory for all drivers in Canada. The purpose of this policy is to provide policyholders with financial protection in the event they are involved in an accident that causes bodily injuries or property damage to a third party. Should a claim for damages be filed against you, your third-party liability will cover the cost of medical bills, legal costs, settlement funds, and other associated expenses.
Accident benefits coverage
If you are in a car accident where either yourself, your passengers, or a pedestrian is injured, accident benefits coverage will kick into place to ensure those injured receive the care they need, regardless of how many vehicles are involved and who is found at fault. This coverage will cover the cost of medical and rehabilitation bills, caregiver expenses, funeral fees, and more, depending on the specifics listed in your policy.
Uninsured motorist coverage
Uninsured motorist coverage is another mandatory car insurance policy in most provinces and territories in Canada. With this insurance, you'll be protected should you be in a car accident where the other drivers involved do not have enough insurance to fairly compensate you for damages or are not insured at all. Uninsured motorist coverage will also provide coverage in the event the other driver flees the accident scene before you are able to exchange information.
Direct compensation - property damage (DCPD)
DCPD coverage is a type of no-fault insurance policy that allows policyholders to deal directly with their own insurance company following a car accident rather than going through the other driver's insurance company. The goal of this insurance is to ensure that you're able to deal with your claims process efficiently and have your vehicle repaired as soon as possible.
Collision car coverage
Collision car coverage is an optional insurance policy that is highly recommended for all Canadian drivers. This insurance will cover the cost of repairs or replacements of your vehicle if it is damaged in a car accident.
Comprehensive car coverage
Comprehensive car coverage is another type of optional insurance policy. With comprehensive coverage, your insurance company will cover the cost of repairs or replacements needed if your car is damaged as a result of a non-collision event. For example, common insured risks included in most basic policies include theft, vandalism, impacts with different objects, and damage caused by severe weather conditions.
Accident forgiveness
Accident forgiveness is a type of one-time car insurance that all drivers can purchase if they wish. Generally, following your first at-fault accident, you'll experience an insurance premium increase from your insurance company. But, with accident forgiveness coverage, your first at-fault accident won't count toward your premiums, saving you from paying more for your insurance. Note that once you use your accident forgiveness coverage, you won't be able to use it again.
Ultimately, this insurance is meant to encourage safe driving and reward those who otherwise maintain a clean driving history. Brush up on your safe driving tips with BrokerLink to save on car insurance and stay safe behind the wheel!
Contact BrokerLink for affordable car insurance today
Have you been in a multi-vehicle crash? Have questions about your claims process? Need to renew your auto insurance? Look no further than BrokerLink
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If you're in the area, feel free to come into one of our offices and work with a broker one-on-one. You can also give us a call over the phone during business hours to speak with a team member! Alternatively, if you're in a rush, take advantage of our free online quote tool that's available on all devices!
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FAQs about multi-vehicle accidents
What should I do after a car accident?
Are you unsure what to do if you're in a car accident? The first thing to remember is to remain calm and assess whether you, your passengers, or other drivers are injured. If injuries have occurred and there is a lot of physical damage amongst those involved, you'll need to call emergency services and the police. Once the police arrive, they will provide a police report, which you will need to get a copy of.
Afterward, make sure to get the contact information of all those involved in the multi-vehicle accident. Once you are in a safe location, you can report the car accident to your insurance company.
Do I need to contact the police after a multiple-vehicle collision?
Reporting a car accident to the police following a multi-car accident is recommended, and in most provinces and territories, you are legally responsible for doing so. Multi-car accidents typically involve a lot of property damage and have the potential for physical injuries to occur. As such, not reporting a car accident with these conditions could lead to legal consequences and hurt your insurance claim.
Will my insurance company pay for damages if I am involved in a multi-car accident?
Yes, if you live in a province or territory with a no-fault insurance system, all the drivers whose vehicles suffered damage will deal directly with their own insurance company rather than the other driver's provider. This ensures that those involved in a multi-vehicle collision can receive the compensation they deserve without having to wait a long time for repairs or replacements.
Can you appeal the decision if you are found to be the at-fault driver?
If you are in a multiple-vehicle accident and have been found as the at-fault driver, you do have the right to appeal the decision. You can do this on your own accord or hire a car accident lawyer to handle the appeal. It's important to keep in mind that while being found at fault for an accident may impact your driving history if you have the right insurance in place, there really isn't much else that can happen to you besides a premium increase the next time you renew your auto insurance. Additionally, if you have accident forgiveness in place, your first at-fault car accident with multiple parties, you can avoid a rate increase altogether.
Who is at fault for a parking lot accident in Ontario?
Like all types of car accidents, parking lot collisions are determined on a case-to-case basis. That said, if you are driving and hit a parked vehicle, typically, the driver operating the car is the one who is found at fault. Additionally, those who are in the driving lane have the right of way, while those pulling out of a parking spot are required to yield. Further, if you or another driver disobeys traffic signs posted in the parking lot and a collision occurs, it is usually the driver who fails to follow the rules who is at fault.
If you have any questions, contact one of our local branches.
